Barbicide is a disinfectant solution used by barbers and cosmetologists for sterilizing grooming tools such as combs and hair-cutting shears. Manufactured by King Research, it was invented in 1947 by Maurice King and marketed heavily around the United States by his brother James. Barbicide is sold as a concentrate diluted for use in a 1:32 ratio with water, with each stylist having a container for treating their own tools. Company technicians claim it is the only such disinfectant to hold its power and color over time, maintaining competitors' products eventually turn green or brown.